You’re driving along and suddenly the unexpected happens – you get involved in an accident. Perhaps someone else ran into your car, you ran into another vehicle, you hit a deer that jumped out from nowhere, or you ran into a parked vehicle. No matter what the situation is, when you are in a car accident, you need to know what to do next.
Being involved in a car accident is shocking. Sometimes it takes a few moments to understand what happened and to assess the situation. Your first thought is most likely “what happened?” Your first concern will be to see if you or anyone else was injured by the collision. You get out of the car, still somewhat in shock. This could be a most dangerous moment if you are not prepared to handle this type of emergency.
All drivers should be educated in advance about what to do after a car accident. Each year across the United States, millions of motor vehicle accidents occur, with tens of thousands of fatalities. It is helpful to periodically review accident procedures, just so your response is proper when you are faced with this event.
Here are 10 important things to do after a car accident:
In California, failure to report an accident can result in your license being suspended. This state also is a “fault” state, meaning that you will have many options to pursue monetary compensation for damage claims from this accident. “No fault” states have different rules for payment of damage claims. In the fault states, you can file a lawsuit to recover compensation. In no fault states, each person files for compensation from their own insurance company, no matter who was at fault for causing the accident.
When you file your report, it must include current, detailed information about your insurance coverage. Reports are cross-checked by the DMV for accuracy. You are required to have liability insurance or you may have driving privileges suspended. This report must be filed according to time limits each state sets. Your car accident attorney will help you meet all required deadlines, so you do not lose your opportunity to get fair compensation for your injury and damage claims.
In our mobile society, car accidents happen to many drivers at some time during their driving experience. Because of the constant risk of being involved in a motor vehicle accident and the great costs that could result from physical, mental, emotional injuries, work loss, and vehicle damage, you need to be prepared at all times. These 10 steps to take after a car accident should put you well on the way to recovery.
References
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